Electronic gaming system and method of house collection

ABSTRACT

An electronic gaming system has at least one table having a plurality of electronic player interaction areas (EPIA&#39;s) spaced preferably about the table so that a gaming player may locate oneself in front of a respective EPIA to play a game. The gaming system preferably has a host console that communicates with each EPIA preferably via a server for managerial control of the plurality of tables. Preferably, a software-based administrator tool operates through a user interface for the creation of at least one gaming profile type by the deletion, editing and creation of various gaming rule parameters. A software-based house collection tool operates similarly to the administrator tool for creating a plurality of house collection profiles that may then be assigned to various game profiles. House collection methods whether performed manually through a human dealer or via the software based house collection tool, preferably include: a pot collection method that is a function of the final pot amount, preferably the betting round reached and the number of players in the game; a time collection method having the option to pay prior to each time interval or optionally pay for extended periods of time; and a hand collection method where each player pays a house collection prior to each hand.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to U.S. provisional patentapplication 60/743,436, filed Mar. 8, 2006, and is incorporated hereinby reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to an electronic gaming systemand, more particularly, to an electronic poker gaming system and methodof house collection.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Gaming is an increasingly popular form of entertainment. Games,particularly, games of chance and skill where one or more players playand place wagers on a desired and/or predicted outcome can be played ina variety of ways and in a variety of places, including at a casino orother venue or on the Internet. Of the various forms of games that areavailable for play, many utilize playing cards. Of these, poker isarguably the most popular.

Traditionally, poker is played at a table with several players wageringpaper or coin money on a series of playing cards dealt from a deck offifty-two cards. This deck is comprised of four suits at thirteen cardsper suit. This form of poker requires a human dealer to coordinate thegame, including dealing, wagering, folding, and the like. In “social”card games, especially poker, the players take turns acting as thedealer, but in licensed commercial gaming establishments, such ascasinos, the dealer is typically a non-playing employee.

For casino poker or “ring games,” a rake is typically collected as acommission fee for the casino for operating the poker game. The rake isgenerally five to ten percent of the pot in each poker hand, up to apredetermined maximum amount. Because casino poker is a player versusplayer game and the house does not wager against its players (unlikeblackjack or roulette), the commission fee or rake is the principalmechanism for the casino to generate revenues. The generated revenuescover the costs involved with providing a dealer for the game and thephysical building in which the game takes place.

During live casino orientated ring games, the house collection istypically performed manually by the dealer who removes chips from thepot while the hand is being played and sets them aside to be droppedinto a secure box after completion of the hand. For tournament play andin contrast to ring game play, a rake may be a simple entrance fee. Interms of legality, government laws are known to describe the taking of arake during poker play as being illegal when conducted without a propergaming license and/or permits. Many such laws are written in a manner sothat they do not prohibit the playing of poker for money at a privatedwelling, so long as nobody is taking a rake.

Unfortunately, any creativity in establishing a rake is limited to thatwhich can be easily and quickly calculated by the dealer during liveplay. Adjusting rake percentages and/or pre-determined amounts with thechanging conditions of game play (i.e. change in the number of players,specific rakes for specific players, partial rakes dependent on partialtime periods, etc.) is very much limited because such complexities canlead to human error and/or unacceptably delay the game.

The present invention is aimed at one or more of the problems set forthabove.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An electronic gaming system has at least one table having a plurality ofelectronic player interaction areas (EPIA's) spaced preferably about thetable so that a gaming player may locate oneself in front of arespective EPIA to play a game. The gaming system preferably has a hostconsole that communicates with each EPIA preferably via a server formanagerial control of the plurality of tables. Preferably, asoftware-based administrator tool operates through a user interface forthe control of at least one gaming profile type by the deletion, editingand creation of various gaming rules. A house collection tool thatpreferably is software based operates similarly to the administratortool for creating a plurality of house collection profiles that may thenbe assigned to various game profiles. House collection methodspreferably include: a pot collection method that is a function of thefinal pot amount, preferably the betting round reached and the number ofplayers in the game; a time collection method having the option to payprior to each time interval or optionally pay for extended periods oftime; and a hand collection method where each player pays a housecollection prior to each hand.

The house collection tool may be a procedure or method that instructs ahuman dealer or employee of the casino how to calculate and collecthouse rakes in poker ring games, but preferably the collection tool isexecuted by the electronic poker system. If so executed, the collectiontool is preferably displayed on the user interface and includes avariety of collection profile choices each having selectable parametersfor host input preferably from the user interface.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated asthe same becomes better understood by reference to the followingdetailed description when considered in connection with the accompanyingdrawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic illustration of a gaming system embodying thepresent invention and in a casino environment;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an electronic poker table of the gamingsystem;

FIG. 3 is a top view of the electronic poker table of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a plan view of a player interface of an electronic playerinteraction area of the system with hole cards of the electronic playingcards hidden;

FIG. 5 is a partial block diagram of the gaming system associated withone poker table;

FIG. 6 is a partial block diagram of the gaming system associated with aplurality of poker tables;

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of software components of the gaming system;

FIG. 8 is a simplified block diagram of the gaming system;

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of the gaming system with a host console;

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of a method of operating the gaming system;

FIG. 11 is a first table tab image displayed on a video screen of thehost console;

FIG. 12 is a second table tab image displayed on the video screen of thehost console;

FIG. 13 is a third table tab image displayed on the video screen of thehost console;

FIG. 14 is a fourth table tab image displayed on the video screen of thehost console;

FIG. 15 is a fifth table tab image on the video screen of the hostconsole;

FIG. 16 is a first image display on a video system of an administratortool and displaying a timing profile;

FIG. 17 is a first image display of a jackpot profile of theadministrator tool;

FIG. 18 is an image display of a create jackpot profile prompt of thejackpot profile; FIG. 19 is a second image display of the jackpotprofile;

FIG. 20 is a third image display of the jackpot profile having an updatejackpot profile prompt;

FIG. 21 is a fourth image display of the jackpot profile;

FIG. 22 is a fifth image display of the jackpot profile having a deleteconfirmation prompt;

FIG. 23 is a create game profile prompt of an image display of a gameprofile of the administrator tool;

FIG. 24 is a first image display of a game profile of the administratortool;

FIG. 25 is a first image display of an update game profile prompt of thegame profile;

FIG. 26 is a first image display of a tournament game profile of thegame profile;

FIG. 27 is a first image display of a create blind structure prompt ofthe tournament game profile;

FIG. 28 is a first image display of a create payout structure prompt ofthe tournament game profile;

FIG. 29 is a second image display of the create payout structure prompt;

FIG. 30 is a first image display of a create rake structure prompt ofthe ring game profile;

FIG. 31 is a second image display of the create rake structure prompt ofthe ring game profile;

FIG. 32 is a seventh image display of the game profile;

FIG. 33 is a second image display of the tournament game profile;

FIG. 34 is an image display of a ring game profile;

FIG. 35 is a collection flow chart based on pot size and executed by ahouse collection tool of the present invention;

FIG. 36 is a first portion of a collection flow chart based on time andexecuted by the house collection tool;

FIG. 37 is a second portion of the collection flow chart of FIG. 36;

FIG. 38 is a first portion of a collection flow chart based on hands andexecuted by the house collection tool;

FIG. 39 is a second portion of the collection flow chart of FIG. 38; and

FIG. 40 is a block diagram of the gaming system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

In the illustrated embodiment and as best shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, anelectronic gaming system 10 and method of house collections embodies thepresent invention.

In U.S. Patent Application Publication number US 2005/0090304 A1, filedSep. 13, 2004, and disclosed herein by reference in its entirety, anelectronic gaming system and method of displaying and obscuringelectronic playing cards is disclosed and assigned to the same assigneeof the present invention. Generally, this electronic gaming systemreplaces the human dealer with a computer capable of simulating the dealand simulating the playing cards via video displays. The system has aplurality of tables with each table having a plurality of electronicplayer interaction areas or stations (EPIA's). An individual interestedin playing a particular game can locate oneself in front of a particularstation of a table (or can be assigned) and upon logging-in, can playthe game.

In U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/419,905, “Administrator Tool ofan Electronic Gaming System and Method of Processing Gaming ProfilesControlled by the System,” filed May 23, 2006, assigned to the sameassignee as the present invention and incorporated herein by referencein its entirety, an administrator tool provides a software based meansto easily alter, update and create new poker game profiles by qualifiedcasino employees. For instance, rules related to timing parameters,jackpots and distribution, and other gaming parameters can now be easilychanged to meet the changing demands and wants of a player, or tosatisfy the interests of the casino.

Unfortunately, even with the software based administrator tool,flexibility in the types and methods of house collections and/or rakesremain limited.

The system 10 utilizes electronic cards 76 or electronic chips andelectronic playing cards 76 to provide an automated card game for playby preferably at least two players. It should be noted that thedescription that follows is directed towards the gaming system 10 whichutilizes electronic cards and chips (for wagering). However, the system10 may also provide a non-wagering (without electronic chips) automatedcard game yet still have the means for house collections. Preferably, ahuman dealer is not required, thus the system 10 handles all dealerfunctions. For the purposes of illustration, the system will bedescribed as applied to an electronic poker game known as Texas Hold'em.However, the present invention is not limited to any particular cardgame.

I. The Game

Referring to FIGS. 1-4, in Texas Hold'em, each player at an electronicgaming or poker table 18 is electronically dealt a number of cards,e.g., two cards, face down. These are known as a player's “hole” cards28 of the electronic playing cards 76 and are generally placed directlyin front of the respective players. A number of cards, e.g., three orfive, are dealt face-up and displayed in a common display area 26. Theseare known as community or common cards 30. A player's hand, thus,consists of the player's hole cards 28 and the common cards 30. At theend of play of a particular hand, whichever player holds the highestpoker hand is the winner of that round or hand of poker.

The electronic playing cards 76 may be used in any sort of electroniccard game, and even in such games where the player chooses when toreveal their hole cards 28 to themselves or to the other players. Theelectronic poker tables 18 are preferably capable of playing any varietyof card games. Each card game, whether poker or otherwise, willgenerally have its own set of rules, including the number of cards, howthe cards are dealt, the number of betting rounds, the structure ofpermissible wagers, and the like. Thus, while the present invention maybe described below in the context of an electronic poker game (and morespecifically, with respect to a player's hole cards 28 in a Hold'emstyle poker game), the present invention is not limited to such a cardgame.

Furthermore, the poker or card game can be a timed game wherein theplayers have a predetermined time period to complete each turn. Forexample, the players have a set period of one minute to complete eachturn. Furthermore, this period of time may vary; for instance, the firstturn may have a period of completion of one minute, while the secondturn may have a shorter or longer period of completion. During a givenbetting round, the players have a predetermined period of time to eitherfold, check, or make a wager. If no action is taken during thepredetermined time period, a default action is taken where the playerpreferably must fold or check. Generally, the time period for responseduring a betting round will decrease as the hand of the electronic pokergame progresses. Parameters, such as the predetermined time period foreach betting round may be automatically modified by the system 10.

II. The Casino

Referring to FIG. 1, the gaming system 10 is preferably situated in agaming environment, such as a casino 12. Typically, the casino 12 isdivided into specialized or designated areas such as a poker room orpoker area 14 each containing a plurality of tables 18, or five tablesas illustrated. The poker area 14 is often cordoned off, for example, bya railing 16. While the casino 12 is one example of an environment forthe gaming system 10 and method of house collection, the presentinvention is not limited to any such location or environment and mayalso include a generally virtual casino environment or any otherenvironment that may require a house collection for the production ofrevenue.

III. The Table

Referring to FIGS. 2-3, each table 18 has a table top 20 supported by atleast one base 42 at floor level, and a plurality of substantiallyvertical legs 44 projecting between the base 42 and the table top 20.The table top 20 includes a playing surface 22 and a plurality ofelectronic player interaction areas (EPIA) 24 for in-part the display ofthe respective hole cards 28. Each table 18 seats a plurality ofplayers, and for example and as illustrated, is preferably capable ofseating a maximum of ten players, hence, each table includes ten EPIA's24A-24J and ten chairs 40 (see FIG. 1). For the game of Texas Hold'em,the table top 20 also preferably includes one central or common displayarea (CDA) 26 for the display of at least the common cards 30.

Although the EPIA's 24 and CDA 26 are generally computer generatedvisual displays, thus authentic playing cards are not utilized, theelectronic poker tables of the gaming system 10 are aestheticallydesigned to convey and retain the overall sense and ambience of astandard poker room with non-electrical poker tables. The playingsurface area not taken up by the EPIA's 24 and the CDA 26 is preferablycovered in a traditional material such as felt having any variety ofcolors. Moreover, logos, game information, or other information may beprinted on the material. Alternatively, the EPIA's 24 and the CDA 26 isa single display that covers a substantial portion or all of the tabletop 20. The EPIA's 24 and the CDA 26 can be set apart from the rest ofthe table top 20 by virtual or computer generated borders. The areas ofthe display around the EPIA's 24 and the CDA 26 are preferably used tosimulate the playing surface 22 of a standard poker table by, forexample, providing an electronic image of a felt material. Furthermore,logos, game information, other information, advertisements,announcements, pictures, videos, or other information may be displayedand rotated, cycled, or shown for a limited period of time on the tabletop 20.

IV. Electronic Player interaction Areas

Referring to FIGS. 2-4, each EPIA 24 has a player interface 54 used toconvey game information directly to a player assigned to the respectiveEPIA 24, and to effectuate interaction or input from the player to thesystem 10. Each EPIA 24 can be part of one large display monitor, suchas a LCD or plasma monitor, that includes the CDA 26, or the EPIA'spreferably have separate and distinct monitors and preferably computersnetworked together as required to play the game. The player interfaces54 are preferably implemented in a module 34 orientated on the table top20, but may also be implemented in a module located elsewhere than atable top or in a hand-held device (not shown).

The player interface 54 of the EPIA 24 is preferably a touch-screendisplay generally framed-in by the module 34. In one embodiment, eachmodule 34 incorporates a fully-functional computer (not shown) and isthus easily removable from the poker table 18 and replaced. The computerincludes a processor capable of running an operating system, such asWindows XP or Windows CE, both available from Microsoft Corporation ofRedmond, Wash. Alternatively, the EPIA's 24 may be driven by one or morecomputers (not shown) located in the proximity of the table 18 with aserver or server computer 50 or within the table 18.

a) Card Reader and Player Account:

Referring to FIG. 3, the module 34 preferably has a card reader 36 forreading a player tracking card (not shown). A player may log into thegaming system 10 through the EPIA 24 preferably by swiping the cardthrough the card reader 36. Additionally, the card reader 36 may beintegrated into the bezel (not shown) located around the module 34. TheEPIA 24 may also require entry of a personal identification number intoan attached keypad or virtual keypad displayed on the player interface54 (see FIG. 4). Once a player's identity is established, the player canaccess a preferably required player account and purchase chips using anaccount balance communicated over a network. The player account may havean associated balance that contains a dollar amount based on an amountof money deposited by the player and/or any winnings that they havecollected, either through poker or some other game. Additionally,information regarding the player's play at the table 18 may be trackedand recorded to the player's account.

In one aspect of the present invention, the gaming system 10 may utilizea cashless system, such as Ticket-In Ticket-Out (TITO), that isconstructed and arranged into each EPIA 24. Alternatively, a preferablybar-coded ticket, magnetic card, RFID card, or some other media (jointlyreferred to as a TICKET) may be inserted in the EPIA 24. The TICKET mayhave an associated value that is either printed and/or encoded thereonor that is associated with the TICKET in the gaming system 10.Additionally, once the player decides to leave the table 18, anyremaining chips they have, may be instantly converted back into dollarsand stored in their player account and/or a new Ticket preferablygenerated at the table 18.

b) Visual Player Interface

Referring to FIGS. 4, preferably the player interface 54 includes agraphical representation 56 of a poker table. Each player in the pokergame is represented by a user graphic or icon 62 that lists their namesas well as their chip totals. The pot of the current hand may berepresented in the center of the poker table representation 56 bystack(s) of virtual chips 64 and/or a number 66 representing the valueof the current pot. Each player's contribution to the pot may berepresented by stack(s) of virtual chips 68 and/or a number 70 adjacenttheir user graphic 62.

The player interface 54 preferably includes a series of player buttons72 and a series of game buttons 74. The player buttons 72 include, forexample, a sit-in button 72A, a leave table button 72B, and an optionsbutton 72C. Generally, only one of the sit in button 72A and the leavetable button 72B would be active at any time. The options button 72Callows the player to access an option menu or screen (not shown) thatallows the player to modify certain parameters of the player interface54, such as for example, to choose between different formats of theplayer interface 54 (i.e. graphical display or text display) and/or tochoose between house collection or rake options. The player buttons 72are preferably implemented on the touch screen display 54, oralternatively, can be embodied in electromechanical switches or buttons(not shown) and as disclosed in U.S. patent application entitled“Head-To-Head Electronic Poker Game Assembly And Method Of Operation,”to be filed (Attorney Docket No. 60,667-069) and incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

Regarding the leave table button 72B, a player may decide to activatethis feature prior to changing seats or moving to another tablealtogether. For example, if another player or players have left thetable 18 leaving fewer players at the table and the player does not liketo play at a table with that few of players, the player may requestthrough the EPIA 24 another seat assignment.

The series of game buttons 74 allow the player to signal their game playdecisions to the gaming system 10 during the play of the game, and thuspreferably include a fold button 74A, a call button 74B and a raisebutton 74C. The game buttons 74 are active when it is a player's turn inthe poker game and preferably inactive when it is not. Moreover, theEPIA 24 only activates those buttons 74 that are appropriate, given therules of the game being played, during the current turn. For example, ifthe maximum number of raises for a particular game has already beenmade, then the wager or raise button would be inactive. The raise button74C may be replaced with one or more buttons (not shown) which allow theplayer to make a wager of a predetermined or allowed amount, e.g. $10.In addition or alternatively, a keypad (not shown) may be provided whichallows the player to key in a wager amount.

Preferably, the player interface 54 also displays the common cards 30.Other information that can be displayed on the player interface include,but is not limited to, an indication (visual icon and/or audio) of theplayer whose turn it is to act, a total of chips for each player, anycards of the other players that are face-up, and/or messages to theplayer, such as advertising.

Moreover, in the casino 12 environment, a portion of each pot known asthe house collection or rake goes to the establishment as revenue forrunning the poker game. The house collection is preferably displayed oneach EPIA 24. The rake may be shown as an amount in dollars and mayinclude a graphical representation of virtual chips. Similarly, the EPIA24 preferably displays a graphical representation of the chips and/or adollar amount indicative of the amount of chips each player at the tablehas remaining and the amount of the current pot.

d) Audio Player Interface:

Preferably, the EPIA 24 includes a player sound generation device thatgenerates sounds audible to the player assigned to the EPIA 24. Theplayer sound generation device may be implemented as an earpiece,headphones, or one or more speakers (not shown). Player sounds aregenerally meant to be heard by a specific player alone and may include areminder or indication of a player's turn, a reminder to pay a housecollection, an indication of being unseated for failure to pay a housecollection, an indication of the time remaining or that time is runningout to act, an audible signal indicating the player's hole cards 28, orthe highest hand of the player or a winning percentage associated withthe player's hand. The audio signals or sounds can be any series ofbeeps, chimes, a simulated voice, and the like.

V. Central Display Area and Audio

As best illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 5, the CDA 26 is used to displayinformation such as common cards 30 for all players to see and is thuslocated further from the players than their respective EPIA's 24.Consequently, the display of the common cards 30 is preferably largerthan the display of the hole cards 28. That is, the hole cards 28 aredisplayed at a first predetermined ratio from the standard size playingcard, and the common cards 30 are displayed at a second predeterminedratio from the standard size playing card. Preferably, the first andsecond ratios may be defined such that the common cards 30 are displayedlarger than the hole cards 28.

As previously described, the CDA 26 is preferably separate from theplurality of EPIA's 24, and is implemented preferably utilizing a LCD orplasma monitor or similar device. The CDA 26 preferably indicates housecollection status, which player's turn it is and which player is thedesignated “dealer” for the current hand. These indications are providedby respective visual signals such as an icon, arrow or the like, and/oran audio signal such as a beep, musical tone, and/or voice message. TheCDA 26 indications may also be in addition to the indication provided onthe respective EPIA 24. With audio indication, the CDA 26 can utilizeintegrated “transducer sound emitting technology” thus eliminating theneed for separate speakers.

In other card games other than Texas Hold'em, common cards 30 may notexist, hence, during play of these games, the CDA 26 can be used todisplay advertising messages instead. The advertising messages may befrom the casino or third parties and may consist of graphics, pictures,animations, video and/or audio. The advertising may be presented atpredetermined locations on the central display 38 for varied durationsas the CDA cycles through a plurality of advertising messages.

In general, the CDA 26 is preferably capable of displaying and/oranimating:

-   -   blinds,    -   common cards 30,    -   bets placed and player chip stacks,    -   an indication of players who have folded and not folded,    -   winning hands,    -   winning hand percentage estimates in situations where all        remaining player hold cards are exposed,    -   house collection status depending upon collection option chosen,        and    -   rake in dollars or virtual chips.

Preferably, the gaming table 18 includes a table or system soundgeneration device (as oppose to the player sound generation devicepreviously described) that is used to generate sounds audible to all theplayers. The table sound generation device may be implemented by one ormore speakers mounted to the table 18. Alternatively, the table soundgeneration device may include one or more speakers adjacent to orintegral with each EPIA 24 as previously described. For example, systemsounds may include sounds imitating the shuffling of cards, the dealingof cards, chips thrown into the pot, sounds related to the winning ofthe jackpot. Player sounds may include a reminder or indication of aplayer's turn, various house collection status' , or if the game istimed, an indication of the time remaining or that time is running out.Generally, player exclusive sounds will not be played through the systemsound generation device.

VI. Server Computer

As best illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, each EPIA 24, in the illustratedembodiment, preferably includes a dedicated computer (not shown), andthe CDA 26 has a dedicated CDA computer 52. Both the EPIA computer andthe CDA computer 52 for any given table 18 communicate with the servercomputer 50 that preferably plays/controls the card game, and preferablyover an Ethernet network 48. The same server 50 communicates or isnetworked in a like manner to preferably all of the tables 18. Oneskilled in the art would now know that more than one EPIA 24 couldoperate off of one computer or that the computer 52 for the CDA 26 couldalso control the EPIA's 24 and/or replace the server 50 altogether.However, having a multitude of dedicated computers simplifies softwareand maintenance issues and due to the relatively inexpensive costs ofcomputers, reduces manufacturing costs of the gaming system 10.

The server 50 is preferably used to implement and facilitate playertracking, ticket in ticket out (cashless) wagering, assigning player'sto the seat 40 at a particular table 18, tournament play, table set-up(including turning the tables on and off and modifying tableparameters), and progressive jackpots. In general, the server 50 runsthe game wherein the server 50 electronically “shuffles” the playingcards, deals the cards, controls the players' turns, receives theplayer's inputs and acts accordingly; tracks, manages, and awards thepot, and tracks the rake. Game data is stored in a database preferablyof the server 50 with each input, wager, play, and the like stored inthe database. Other functions implemented by the server 50 are:

-   -   electronically shuffling the playing cards 76    -   dealing cards,    -   controlling players' turns,    -   receives the player's data input,    -   player tracking,    -   cashless wagering,    -   defining and modifying table parameters, including, turning the        tables 18 on and off, setting the poker game being played at the        table 18, setting wager parameters, and the like,    -   defining and managing jackpots, including the house percentage        or rake,    -   defining and managing progressive jackpots,    -   establishing and managing a queue for players and assigning        players to seats 40 and/or specific tables 18 from the queue,        and    -   establishing and managing tournament play, including assigning        player seats, collapsing tables, and the like.

In addition, other devices may be connected to the server 50 forproviding additional features and/or functions. For example, a queuingsystem can be provided utilizing its own dedicated computer. However, insome systems these additional features or function could be provided, atleast in part, by the server(s) 50.

VII. General Process and Software

With particular reference to FIG. 10, in another aspect of the presentinvention, a method 110 provides an electronic poker game to a pluralityof players on at the electronic poker table 18 using the host console102 and the server computer 50. In a first step 112, the host console102 preferably configures the EPIA's 24 and the central display area 26and establishes parameters of the electronic poker game. In a secondstep 114, the electronic poker game is administered by the servercomputer 50 using electronic or virtual cards and chips.

In operation, the gaming system 10 will implement a player-account basedcash in/cash out system. The system 10 will create a user account foreach player. Once an account is established for the player, the playeris issued a Player Card having an associated personal identificationnumber or PIN. Once the player has been issued a Player Card, theiraccount may be funded. The Player Card is used to identify the player atthe tables 18. The player may fund their account by bringing cash to acage, where the cash is accepted and credited to the player's account.Printed receipts are given to the player and maintained by the casino12. To bring electronic chips to the table 18, the player sits down at aseat 40, swipes their Player Card and enters their PIN. The system 10informs the player of their account balance and allows them to convertall or a portion of the account balance to electronic chips to bring tothe game.

Referring to FIG. 7 and from a software perspective, the gaming system10 may be implemented using six program groups: a table server 84, agame engine 82, a table client 86, a player client 90, a table manager88, and a cage manager 92. The table server 84 implements the networkcommunication, control and authentication as well as inter-tablefunctions (seat reservations, multi-table tournaments). The game engine82 is responsible for all game functions, e.g., electronic playing carddeck generation, dealing, betting, determining winners and awardingpots. The table client 86 is the graphical control for the CDA 26. Theplayer client implements the user interface for the EPIA 24 and thelogic for capturing player input and communication the player input tothe table client server. The table manager 88 contains the hostinterface 120 for setting user, network, and game parameters, forstarting, pausing, and stopping games, and for monitoring game activityand responding to system or user generated alerts. The cage manager 92provides the ability to create and fund player accounts and to createthe player cards.

If there are no seats 40 available, the player is placed in a queue,until a seat opens up. In one embodiment, players are taken off of thequeue and assigned a seat on a first come, first served basis. However,the system 10 may allow the casino 12 to implement special rules forplayers to bypass the queue or list. For example, the casino may presentvouchers to players under certain conditions, such as a win in atournament, to be placed at the head of a queue.

In one aspect of the present invention and as stated above, the system10 tracks each transaction, wager, card dealt in a database. The system10 also tracks the players which are playing at each table 18. Thisinformation is stored in the database, summarized, and may be presentedin any numerous forms of reporting formats. Any information regardingthe player's, the games, and how each hand is played may be tracked.This available data may also be analyzed for purposes of determining thefrequency of poker hands (per hour) for a table or all games in which aparticular player or players played or detecting, e.g., collusionbetween players.

The system 10 allows jackpots, i.e., progressive jackpots, to begenerated by and won across multiple hands and/or multiple tables. Aprogressive jackpot may increase based on the amounts wagered and/or wonat the included tables. The progressive jackpot may continue to increaseuntil won under a set of predetermined conditions. Alternatively, it maybe active until only for a predetermined time period. The conditions forwinning the jackpot that it is won by one or more players at the end ofthe time period.

The system 10 allows a progressive jackpot to be funded in multipleways. The way in which a progressive jackpot is funded may be fundedthrough a computer program application on the server 50 or other device.For example, the progressive jackpot may be funded by taking a setpercentage from every jackpot, every other jackpot, or every n^(th)jackpot. The amount of the progressive jackpot may be displayed on theCDA 26 and/or a remote display.

The progressive jackpot may be initiated randomly, under certaindefinable conditions, and/or for a specific event, i.e., a marketingevent. The progressive jackpot may be a single hand, a predeterminednumber of hands at one table or across multiple hands, for apredetermined time period, and the like.

Preferably, after a jackpot is won by a player, one or more governmentreporting forms may be presented to the player on their EPIA 24. Theform may accept the player's electronic signature (if permissible) ormay notify the player of the requirements and direct them to a locationwhere they can fill out the form. The device may be a personal,notebook, or tablet computer, handheld computer, PDA, or other suitabledevice.

VIII. Host Console

With particular reference to FIGS. 5-6 and 9, the system 10 preferablyhas a host console 102 in electrical communication with the servercomputer 50 for configuring the EPIA's 24 and/or the CDA 26 and forestablishing parameters of the electronic poker game. Preferably, thehost console 102 is embodied in a separate computer, such as a personalcomputer, connected or networked (wired or wirelessly) to the servercomputer 50. The host console 102 may be integrated into a console, suchas a kiosk. The host console 102 may also be embodied in any type ofsuitable device, such as a handheld computer, a personal digitalassistant (PDA), notebook or laptop computer, or tablet computer.Preferably, the host console 102 provides interaction with a host orfloor manager of the casino 12 via a host interface 120 of the hostconsole 102 that is preferably a touch-screen similar to the playerinterface 54.

In general, the host console 102 is an administration device that can beused to create and edit game profiles including setting the method ofhouse collection, game type, limits, play timing, and/or number ofrequired players. The host console 102 allows the host or casinoemployee to start, pause, and stop games and to monitor table play.Additional electronic tables 18 can be activated or opened, and ring ortournament games (see below) can be easily started. Preferably, the hostconsole 102 provides the ability to turn any one or all of the pokertables 18 on and off by communicating with the EPIA computers and CDAcomputer 52 via the server 50.

The host console 102 may enable a casino employee or host to:

-   -   select or change one of the plurality of poker games to be        played on one or more of the electronic poker tables 18,    -   select the betting or wager structure to be used (For example,        the poker games may have one of a limit, no-limit, or pot-limit        wagering structure. The host console 102 enables the employee        set the wagering structure for a given electronic poker table        18.),    -   select or change other parameters of the electronic poker games,        including, but not limited to time parameters, wager limits,        amounts associated with a big blind and a little blind,    -   select whether the electronic poker game is a timed game or a        non-timed game,    -   modify the predetermined time period for each betting round in a        timed game,    -   monitor the number of drinks ordered by a player through the        EPIA 24,    -   add notes with information related to a specific player,    -   initiate a replay of a previous hand graphically, textually or        numerically,    -   lock out and remove one of the players from the electronic poker        table 18,    -   adjust the stack of electronic chips for one or more of the        players (Possibly for correcting any deficiencies and/or settle        any disputes with regard to operation of the electronic poker        table 18 or play of one of the other players)    -   control house collections

Referring to FIG. 11, the host console 102 is programmed with two mainsections referred to on the touch screen 120 of the host console 102 asa table tab 122 and a wait list tab 124. When activating or booting-upthe host console 102, or when the host selects the table tab 122 if theconsole is already activated, a default or home screen of the system 10generally depicts graphically the tables 18 (not shown). This depictiongenerally marks the beginning of all the table pages or table tab images126 generally programmed under the table tab 122 option. Selection ofthe wait list tab 124 displays a wait list page (not shown). Generally,each one of the pages 126 on the touch-screen 120 provides a multitudeof options for the host to select. When selected, the home pages 126will generally change the display configuration providing additionalinformation for the host and often additional options to choose from.For the sake of explanation, and although each page 126 may have amultitude of screen displays, all the screen displays with respect tothe table tab 122 will be referred to as one common table page 126.

With particular reference to FIG. 11, each table 18 may be selected anddiagnostic information and options are shown on the table page 126 thatincludes a table component list 130, a component parameter list 132, areset connection button 134, a restart software button 136, a rebootbutton 138, a calibrate screen button 140, a back button 142, and arefresh button 144. Because the table page 126 is preferably one of manyscreen displays linked to that illustrated in FIG. 11, the back andrefresh buttons 142, 144 provide the host with the ability to generallyscroll through various screen displays of the table page 126 such asthat also illustrated in FIG. 12.

The table component list 130 includes a list of substantially allcomponents of the selected table 18, each personal computer or server 50(i.e., the “Table Client”) and each module 34 (i.e., the individualseats). Selection of one of the components of the table 18 in the tablecomponent list 130 displays information regarding the selected componentin the component parameter list 132.

The table component list parameter list 132 preferably includes a:

-   -   1. Description Field (e.g., “Table 13, Seat 4”);    -   2. Client Type Field (e.g., Player or Table);    -   3. Client Status: (Active or Inactive);    -   4. Connection Status: (Connected or Disconnected);    -   5. Seat Number (where appropriate);    -   6. Seat Status (e.g., Open, Reserved, Active);    -   7. Player Name (when available);    -   8. Player Status (e.g., Active or In-Active); and    -   9. House Collection Option (if available to player).

The table page 126 also includes a stop/pause parameter selection area146, a move game button 148, a pause game button 150, a stop game button152, an auto deal check button 154, a closed seating check button 156, ause wait list check button 158, an information/status area, a pair ofnavigation buttons, and a clear alert button 164. The stop/pauseparameter selection area 146, located toward the lower left hand cornerof the screen, is used with either of the pause game button 150 or thestop game button 152 if the host wants to pause a game or electronictable 18 to make a change or perform some other function. The stop/pauseparameter selection area 146 includes the three options of “No Delay,”“Minutes,” and “Hands.” The game or table will be resumed when the hostis finished. A stopped game ends the play at the table typically at theend of the day.

In the lower right hand corner of the screen illustrated in FIG. 11, theauto deal check button 154, the closed seating check button 156, and theuse wait list check button 158 are used to turn on/off the correspondingfunction. The information/status area 160 provides additionalinformation about the selected component or a just completed action. Thenavigation buttons 162 may be used to cross between messages in theinformation/status area 160. The clear alert button 164 is used to clearalerts generated by players at their respective EPIA's 24A-24J.

Referring to FIG. 12, the table page 126 also displays informationregarding the game being played at the selected table of the pluralityof tables 18A-18J. Preferably, the tables 18A-18J are used to provide avariety of electronic card games, such as poker, and the host console102 provides a list of the predefined or selected card games. Whenproviding game information, the table page 126 preferably has a generalsection 168, a game play section 170, a rake section 172, and a liveaction setting section 174. The general section 168 includes the currentgame and a description of the current game being played on the selectedtable of the plurality of tables 18A-18J and any other neededinformation associated with the current game. In FIG. 12, the selectedgame is “Limit Hold'em $1/$2”. The general section 168 includes: type,variation, stakes, and jackpots. The game play section 170 describesparameters that affect game play. In the illustrated embodiment, thegame play section 170 includes: maximum raises per hand, action timelimit, minimum number of players, and maximum number of players. Therake section 172 includes information regarding the current rake orhouse collection. The live action section 174 includes informationregarding wagering. For example, the defined game is “Limit Hold'em$1/$2” and the live action section 174 includes information related tothe blinds, permissible wagers, and the minimum and maximum stakesallowed.

Referring to FIG. 13 and more particularly to pausing and/or stopping agame via the host console 102, the stop/pause parameter selection area146 is used to select how the game will be stopped or paused. To do so,there are three options: “no delay,” “by minutes,” and “by hands.” If“no delay” is first selected, then if the pause button 150 or the stopgame button 152 is selected, the game is immediately paused or stopped,respectively. Once a game has been paused, the pause button 150 (seeFIG. 12) will be replaced with a resume button 151 (see FIG. 13).Alternatively, if “by minutes” is selected, then a minute dialog orvirtual keypad (not shown) is displayed. The minute dialog allows thehost to enter when the game will be paused or stopped (in minutes) afterthe appropriate buttons are selected. Yet again, if “by hands” isselected, then a hands dialog or virtual keypad (not shown) isdisplayed. The hands dialog allows the host to enter when the game willbe paused or stopped (in number of hands of play) after the appropriatebuttons are selected.

Referring to FIG. 14, a player who has left the table to take or breakor for any reason may return as long as they pay any missed blinds andpotentially any missed house collections. However, the other players maywant another player to sit in. The unseat button 206 of one of the tablepages 126 allows the host to remove a player from the table after theplayer has left their seat for an amount of time or a number of hands(without logging out).

With particular reference to FIG. 15, a tournament chop page 218 of thehost interface 120 is preferably used only during tournaments and allowsthe host to stop tournament play prematurely, i.e., before only oneplayer is left, and split the remaining pot or table stakes. Thetournament chop page 218 includes a series of check boxes 220 that allowthe host to designate how the pot or jackpot will be split. In theillustrated embodiment, there are three options: split manually, spliteven, or split by table stakes. If split manually is chosen, thecorresponding amounts are entered in a virtual key pad 222. Thetournament chop page 218 may also include a refund rake check box 224. Acancel button 225 allows the employee to cancel the current operationand return to a previous screen. A stop & chop now button 226 stops thecurrent tournament and splits the pot as designated.

Additional features of the host console 102 are described in thefollowing U.S. patent applications all of which are assigned to the sameassignee of the present invention and are herein incorporated byreference in their entirety:

-   -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/419,908, filed May 23, 2006;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/419,910, filed May 23, 2006;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/419,899, filed May 23, 2006;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/419,902, filed May 23, 2006;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/419,903, filed May 23, 2006;        and    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/419,915, filed May 23, 2006.

IX. Administrator Tool

Referring to FIGS. 15-33, the gaming system 10 preferably has aadministrator tool 300 that is software or controller based or acomputer readable media and communicates with the host console 102 andserver 50 for configuring the settings of the electronic poker tables 18and games. The administrator tool 300 enables, for instance, a floormanager of the casino 12 to conveniently and quickly adapt to theconstant changes that occur within the poker room or area 14, becausenew games can be created, configured and stored for easy access.Preferably, the administrator tool 300 is accessed by selecting anadministrator tool icon (not shown) from a dedicated computer with adedicated interface, monitor, electronic tablet or screen 301 andpreferably a mouse or touch screen. Alternatively, the administratortool 300 could be run from the game computer 94 (see FIG. 8), the hostconsole 102, or the sever computer 50 (see FIG. 9). Access to theadministrator tool icon is preferably limited to a pre-approved floormanager or employee of the casino 12 who may or may not be a hostemployee. This depends upon internal security and operational proceduresof the casino.

Referring generally to FIG. 15, when the icon (not shown) is initiallyselected, the administrator tool 300 displays three options or settingsdesignated as gaming profile types 302, table setup 304 and hostadministration 306 in an option field 308 preferably at the left of thescreen 301. The option field 308 is adjacent to an information field 310on the right and a tool bar 312 preferably toward the top of the screen301. By selecting a “+” symbol adjacent to gaming profile types 302, thelist is expanded and a plurality of profile types or headings aredisplayed; they preferably are: timing profiles heading 314, jackpotprofile heading 316 and game profile heading 318. The timing profilesheading 314 is associated with events in a game that are timed, and thusdetermines how fast or how slow the game proceeds within the system 10.The jackpot profile heading 316 enables adjustment of various amounts ofmoney or awards regarding jackpots, and the game profiles heading 318allows the creation and saving of games each with unique parameters.

a) Jackpot Profile:

The jackpot profile heading 316 can be added to any game profile andfurther functions to perform the following:

-   -   create a new jackpot profile,    -   edit an existing jackpot profile, and    -   delete a jackpot profile.

Referring to FIGS. 17-18, when the administrator tool 300 is used tocreate anew jackpot profile, the “+” symbol adjacent the profile types302 is selected and the jackpot profile heading 316 is selected orhighlighted from the subsequent drop-down list. Once highlighted, theadministrator automatically reveals a jackpot list 368 in theinformation field 310. The floor manager then selects the new icon 322in the tool bar 312 that causes a jackpot profile overlay window orjackpot prompt 370 to appear (see FIG. 18).

Preferably, the jackpot prompt 370 has the following fields for thefloor manager to enter data:

-   -   description field 372    -   minimum pot field 374    -   fee percent field 376    -   fee increment field 378    -   maximum fee field 380    -   fixed fee amount field 382    -   jackpot account field 384    -   payout amount field 386    -   jackpot rule field 388    -   minimum players field 390

The description field 372 assigns a name to the jackpot profile such asfor example “Royal Flush” or “Bad Beat.” The minimum pot field 374determines the minimum amount required in the pot before it is awarded,and assigns that amount in the space provided. If a casino fee or housecollection is desired, the fee percent field 376 takes a percent of eachpot. If a fee percent is desired, the fee increment field 378 is used toenter an incremental fee amount preferably in dollars. Preferably, thefee increment would match a chip value such as fifty cents or onedollar. The maximum fee field 380 sets a cap on the dollar amount takenout of each pot, if so desired. The fixed fee amount field 382 sets aspecific cents or dollar amount fee for each pot. Use of field 382alleviates use of fields 376, 378 and 380. The jackpot account field 384is the name of the account where the funds established by field 376 orfield 380 is deposited. This field preferably has a default name ofjackpot. The minimum players field 390 sets the minimum number ofplayers that must be playing for a jackpot to be awarded.

With the jackpot profile heading 316 chosen, each of the fields 372-390are listed as column headings 392 of the jackpot list 368 in theinformation field 310. When all applicable fields 372-390 of the prompt370 are filled in by the floor manager, an “o.k.” box 394 of the prompt370 is selected and the jackpot profile is then available for selectionwhen updating or creating a game profile.

Referring to FIGS. 19-20, when the administrator tool 300 is used toedit a jackpot profile, the “+” symbol adjacent to profile types 302 isfirst selected by the floor manager. This causes the administrator toreveal the plurality of profile types or headings, which preferably arethe timing profiles heading 314, the jackpot profile heading 316 and thegame profile heading 318. The jackpot profile heading 316 is thenhighlighted or selected by the floor manager from the plurality ofprofile types 302 in the options field 308. This selection causes theadministrator tool 300 to display the jackpot list 368 in theinformation field 310. From the jackpot list 368, the floor managerchooses the appropriate jackpot profile for editing.

Referring to FIG. 20 and by way of illustrative example, a ring bad beatjackpot profile 396 of the jackpot list 368 is selected by the floormanager. This selection causes the administrator tool 300 to display anupdate jackpot profile prompt 398 that preferably has the same fields372-390 as the create jackpot prompt 370 (see FIG. 42). When all desiredfields for editing are changed by the floor manager, the floor managerselects an “o.k.” box 400 of the prompt 398 thus completing the editingprocess of a jackpot profile.

Referring to FIGS. 21-22, when the administrator tool 300 is used todelete a jackpot profile, the “+” symbol adjacent to profile types 302is first selected by the floor manager. This causes the administratortool 300 to reveal the plurality of profile types or headings 314, 316and 318. The jackpot profile heading 316 is then highlighted or selectedby the floor manager from the plurality of profile types 302 in theoptions field 308. This selection causes the administrator tool 300 todisplay the jackpot list 368 in the information field 310. From thejackpot list 368, the floor manager chooses the appropriate jackpotprofile for deletion.

From the information field 310, the floor manager, by way ofillustrative example, then selects or highlights the jackpot profileidentified as “ring bad beat” 396. Once selected, the floor managerselects the delete icon 362 in the tool bar 312 causing theadministrator tool 300 to automatically reveal an overlay window ordelete confirmation prompt 402 that requests confirmation of theselected deletion (see FIG. 22). Once the floor manager confirms thedeletion by selecting a “yes” box 404 in the prompt 402 the deletionprocess is completed.

b) Game Profiles:

Referring to FIGS. 23-24, the game profiles provides the floor managerwith the ability to create and save games with each game having a uniqueset of parameter. These parameters may include such setting as:

-   -   game type (ring or tournament)    -   stakes (limit or no limit)    -   betting requirements (small and big blind values)    -   rake amount identifier (i.e. a chosen house collection method)        For example, the floor manager can create two different game        profiles for Texas Hold'em with different small and big blind        values. A game profile is preferably assigned to an electronic        table 18 before starting the game with the specific game profile        at that table.

The game profiles heading 316 further functions to perform thefollowing:

-   -   create a new game profile,    -   edit an existing game profile,    -   clone an existing game profile, and    -   delete a game profile.

When the administrator tool 300 is used to create a new game profile,the game profiles heading 318 in the expanded list under profile types302 is first highlighted by the floor manager preferably withoutselecting the “+” symbol adjacent to the timing profiles heading 314.The floor manager then selects the new icon 322 in the tool bar 312 thatcauses a create or update game profile prompt 406 to appear (see FIG.23). Preferably, the game prompt 406 has the following fields for thefloor manager to enter data and make selections:

-   -   description field 408    -   game field 410    -   wait lists field 412    -   time out field 414    -   ring field 416    -   single table tournament field 418    -   multi-table tournament field 420    -   hi field 422    -   hi/low field 424    -   ante field 426    -   bring in field 428    -   small blind field 430    -   big blind field 432    -   small wager field 434    -   big wager field 436    -   limit field 438    -   pot limit field 440    -   no limit field 442    -   minimum stakes field 444    -   suggested field 446    -   maximum stakes field 448    -   maximum raises field 450    -   minimum rebuy field 452    -   minimum rejoin field 454    -   rejoin timeout field 456    -   minimum players field 458    -   maximum players field 460    -   time limit field 462    -   auto deal field 464    -   game timing field 466    -   zero balance timeout field 468    -   number of tables field 470    -   buy-in field 472    -   initial stakes field 474    -   increment field 476    -   unit field 478    -   rake account field 480    -   available jackpot profiles field 482    -   assigned jackpot profiles field 484

Many of the above fields are described in previously referenced U.S.patent application Ser. No. 11/419,905. However, with regards to rakesand jackpots, the rake account field 480 allows entry of an account inwhich the rake is deposited. As illustrated in FIG. 23, the current rakeaccount is “houserake.” The available jackpot profiles field 482 ispreferably a scrolling list of available jackpot profiles. One or moreof these profiles can be selected by the floor manager and uponselection of arrow key 486 of the prompt 406, the selected jackpotprofile(s) are eligible whenever the game profile is being played. Theassigned jackpot profiles field 486 is a scrolling list of jackpotprofiles assigned to the game profile. Selection of any one of theassigned jackpot profiles and selection of arrow key 488 will remove theselected, assigned, jackpot profile from the assigned jackpot profilesfield 486.

When all applicable fields 408-484 of the create game profile prompt 406are filled in by the floor manager, a “save” box 490 of the prompt 406is selected and the game profile is saved for future use.

Referring to FIGS. 24-25, the administrator tool 300 can edit a gameprofile at any time. However, any game profile changes preferably willnot affect a game being played at the time of the change. When theadministrator tool 300 is used to edit a game profile, the “+” symboladjacent to profile types 302 is first selected by the floor manager.This causes the administrator to reveal the plurality of profile typesor headings, which preferably are the timing profiles heading 314, thejackpot profile heading 316 and the game profile heading 318. The gamingprofiles heading 318 is then highlighted by the floor manager from theplurality of profile types 302 and the adjacent “+” symbol is selectedto reveal a listing of available game profiles 492 in the options field308. The game profile 492 that requires editing is then highlighted orselected causing each of the fields 408-484 as previously described forprompt 406 to be listed as column headings 494 in the information field310 and the previously entered parameters/data 496 of the selected gameprofile 492 to appear in the information field 310 below the associatedcolumn headings 494.

When the floor manager selects an update icon 498 in the tool bar 312,an update game profile prompt 500 appears (see FIG. 25). Prompt 500 issubstantially the same as the previously described create game prompt406 (see FIG. 23), hence, like fields shall have the same identifyingnumerals. Once displayed, the floor manager makes the desired changes toany one of the fields 408-484. When finished, the floor manager selectsa “save” box 502 of the prompt 500 and the updated game profile can thenbe assigned to an electronic table 18.

c) Tournament Game Profiles

Tournament game profiles are created generally as any other game profileis created and as previously described. As best shown in FIGS. 22-23,selection of the single table tournament field 418 of create gameprofile prompt 406 designates a game profile as a tournament game.Generally from the option and information fields 308, 310 the floormanager may modify a tournament game profile in terms of creating:

-   -   a blind structure 510 (see FIGS. 26 and 27),    -   a payout structure 512 (see FIG. 29), and    -   a rake structure 514 (see FIG. 31, also applicable for ring game        profiles).

Blind structures 510 are a way of increasing blinds associated with thehand or minute increments previously entered in field 476 and field 478of the create game profile prompt 406 (see FIG. 23). Payout structures512 generally designate an amount or percent of money paid out toplayers at the end of a tournament and dependent upon their finalplacement with regards to the other tournament players. For instance, aplayer who wins first place will likely receive a greater award than aplayer who wins second place. The rake structure 514 preferably appliesto both tournament and ring game profiles and generally varies thepercent of a pot or percent of a buy-in dependent upon the pot size ortotal buy-in amount collected for a particular tournament.

Referring to FIGS. 32 and 26, when the administrator tool 300 is used tocreate a blind structure 510 for a tournament game profile 492, the “+”symbol adjacent to profile types 302 in the option field 308 is firstselected by the floor manager, then the “+” symbol adjacent to the gameprofiles heading 318 is selected. Selection of heading 318 causes thedrop-down listing of game profiles 492 to appear. The floor manager thenselects the tournament game profile to be modified. When the “+” symboladjacent to the tournament game profile is elected, the administratortool 300 reveals a drop-down listing that preferably lists optionalselections 516 for the blind structure 510, the payout structure 512(see FIG. 29) and the rake structure 514 (see FIG. 31).

Selection of the blind structure 510 of the selections 516 for aparticular tournament game profile 492 causes blind structureinformation to be listed in the information field 310. The floor managerthen selects the new icon 322 in the tool bar 312 that causes a createblind structure prompt 518 to appear (see FIG. 27). Preferably, theblind structure prompt 518 has the following fields for the floormanager to enter data:

-   -   level field 520,    -   ante field 522,    -   bring-in field 524,    -   small blind field 526,    -   big blind field 528,    -   small wager field 530, and    -   big wager field 532.

Referring to FIGS. 29, 32 and 33, when the administrator tool 300 isused to create a payout structure 512 for a tournament game profile 492,the “+” symbol adjacent to profile types 302 in the option field 308 isfirst selected by the floor manager, then the “+” symbol adjacent to thegame profiles heading 318 is selected. Selection of heading 318 causesthe drop-down listing of game profiles 492 to appear. The floor managerthen selects the tournament game profile to be modified. When the “+”symbol adjacent to the tournament game profile is elected, theadministrator tool 300 reveals another drop-down listing that preferablylists the optional selections 516 for the blind structure 510, thepayout structure 512 and the rake structure 514.

Referring to FIGS. 30, 31 and 34, when the administrator tool 300 isused to create a rake structure 514 for a tournament or ring gameprofile 492, the “+” symbol adjacent to profile types 302 in the optionfield 308 is first selected by the floor manager, then the “+” symboladjacent to the game profiles heading 318 is selected. Selection ofheading 318 causes the drop-down listing of game profiles 492 to appear.The floor manager then selects the ring game or tournament game profileto be modified. As best shown in FIG. 33, when the “+” symbol adjacentto a tournament game profile is selected, the administrator tool 300reveals another drop-down listing that preferably lists the optionalselections 516 for the blind structure 510, the payout structure 512,and the rake structure 514. As best shown in FIG. 34, when the “+”symbol adjacent to a ring game profile is selected, the administratortool 300 reveals another drop-down listing that preferably lists onlythe rake structure 514.

Selection of the rake structure 514 of the selections 516 for aparticular tournament or ring game profile 492 causes the listing ofrake structure information 546 in the information field 310 if anyexists at the time (see FIG. 34). The floor manager then selects the newicon 322 in the tool bar 312 that causes a create rake structure prompt548 to appear (see FIG. 30). Preferably, the rake structure prompt 548has a pot size field 550 and a rake amount field 552 for entry of databy the floor manager.

The pot size field 550 and the rake amount field 552 of the rakestructure prompt 548 preferably corresponds to column headings 554 inthe information field 310. For a tournament game profile, the floormanager enters the total buy-in amount for all the players into the potsize field 550. For a ring game profile and as illustrated in FIGS. 34,the floor manager creates the rake structure for each increment of therake. For example, if the pot size is ten dollars, the rake may be onedollar, if the pot size is twenty dollars, the rake may be two dollars,and so on. The rake structure 514 may depend then on the maximumpossible pot size and/or the maximum amount raked.

For each rake increment of the ring game profile 492, the floor managerenters the pot size in the pot size field 550 of the rake structureprompt 548, then the amount to be raked is entered into the rake amountfield 552. As illustrated in FIG. 31 for example, the floor manager iscreating a ninth record or increment for a pot size of $55.50 and a rakeamount of $6.00. The floor manager then selects a “save” box 554 of therake structure prompt 548 to save the settings. The process is generallycompleted after this first iteration for tournament game profiles, andis repeated beginning with the selection of the new icon 322 for eachincrement of a ring game profile.

X. House Collection Tool

Referring generally to FIGS. 35-39, the gaming system 10 preferably hasa house collection tool 600, and like the administrator tool 300, thehouse collection tool is software based or is a computer readable mediathat generally communicates with or is operated by the host console 102and server or controller 50 for configuring a variety of housecollection methods applied to the electronic poker tables 18 and games.The house collection tool enables, for instance, a floor manager of thecasino 12 to conveniently and quickly adapt to the constant changes thatoccur within the poker room or area 14, because new different housecollection methods can be created, configured and stored for easyaccess. Preferably, the house collection tool 600 is accessed byselecting a house collection tool icon (not shown) from a dedicatedcomputer with a dedicated interface, monitor, electronic tablet orscreen 301 and preferably a mouse or touch screen. Alternatively oradditionally, the house collection tool 600 could be run or executedfrom the game computer 94 (see FIG. 8), the host console 102, or thesever computer 50 (see FIG. 9). Access to the house collection tool iconis preferably limited to a pre-approved floor manager or employee of thecasino 12 who may or may not be a host employee. This depends uponinternal security and operational procedures of the casino. Moreover, ahost employee having access to the administrator tool 300 may not havethe necessary security clearance for access to the house collection tool600.

Although the administrator tool 300 may provide limited capability inadjusting house rakes for various game profiles as previously described,the house collection tool 600 provides substantially greater flexibilityin house collections and/or rakes for both the player and the casinoestablishment. Preferably, and with regards to house collections, theadministrator tool 300 is the slave to the house collection tool 600,which is the master.

More specifically, and referring to FIG. 40, the house collection tool600 provides the means in which a variety of house collection profilescan be created, appropriately named and/or identified, and listed from acomputer database. When creating a game profile via the administratortool 300, a list 601 of house collection profiles previously created canbe accessed and a specific collection profile can be selected for aspecific game profile. The game computer 94 receives the game and housecollection profile data preferably from the administrator tool 300 forthe execution of both the game and house collection profiles.

The house collection tool 600 is capable of creating variations of avariety of house collection methods or profiles. Three such methods orprofiles are: a pot collection profile 602, a time collection profile604, and a hand collection profile 606. The pot collection profile 602is generally based on the pot amount reached and, unlike traditionalcollection methods, on the number of players and the betting roundreached. By defining a pot collection criteria that reduces the housecollection with a reduction in the number of players and/or a reductionin the betting round reached, players are provided with an incentive toplay short-handed. Moreover, the pot collection profile 602 may alsofactor in a house collection from side pots. The time collection profile604 is based on collections from each player at configurable timeintervals, wherein the time intervals expire at a common moment for allthe players (i.e. top of the hour). The hand collection profile 606 isgenerally a collection of a house rake at the beginning of each hand andbefore the system 10 deals the virtual cards. Other factors that mayaffect any of the collection profiles 602, 604, 606 are pot amountreached, number of active players at the beginning of the hand, and thebetting round reached (i.e. pre-flop, flop, turn, river).

a) Pot Based Collection:

Referring to FIG. 35, the pot collection method or profile 602 may beapplied by a human dealer, however, the profile is preferably executedby the house collection tool 600 of the system 10. The pot collectionprofile 602 preferably follows traditional pot collection methods bytaking a percentage from each pot at the end of hand play for casinorevenue. However, the pot collection profile 602 also factors in thenumber of players and preferably the betting round reached of each handto establish maximum or limits to the house collection per hand. Whenthe poker game is being played with the pot collection profile 602 ofthe house collection tool 600, the system 10 first recognizes andrecords 608 the number of players at the beginning of each hand. Thehand is then played-out 610 by the system 10 and the final pot amount isnoted 612. Utilizing a pre-selected pot collection percentage, thesystem then calculates a preliminary collection amount 614. The hand isthen reviewed by the system to determine if the hand ended prior to thefirst flop betting round 616. If the hand ended after the pre-flopbetting round and before the flop betting round, the system 10determines if the preliminary collection amount is greater than apre-selected minimum house collection amount 618. If it is not greater,the system preferably collects 620 the preliminary collection amountfrom the final pot amount. If the preliminary collection amount isgreater than the pre-selected minimum house collection amount, then thesystem 10 only collects 622 the minimum house collection amount.Preferably, the minimum house collection amount is pre-establishedregardless of the number of players.

If play of the hand has continued at least through the flop bettinground, the system determines 624 if the preliminary collection amount isgreater than a pre-selected maximum house collection amount. If notgreater, then the system collects 626 the preliminary collection amountfrom the final pot. If the preliminary collection amount is greater thanthe pre-selected maximum house collection amount, the system collects628 the maximum house collection amount from the final pot. Preferably,the maximum house collection amount is dependent at least in-part upon(i.e. is a function of) the number of players at the beginning of thehand. The maximum house collection amount may also be a function of thenumber of betting rounds conducted after the pre-flop betting round.

With this understanding of the pot collection method 602, an employee ofthe casino 12, for instance, having security access to the housecollection tool 600 can construct a pot collection profile in a waysimilar to that of constructing a game profile, as previously described.Parameters that are preferably entered by the host or employee mayinclude:

-   -   a percentage for calculating the preliminary collection amount,    -   a minimum house collection amount,    -   a maximum house collection amount based on two players and the        game ending after the second betting round,    -   a maximum house collection amount based on three players and the        game ending after the second betting round,    -   a maximum house collection amount based on four players and the        game ending after the second betting round, (and so on with        increasing players)    -   a maximum house collection amount based on two players and the        game ending after the third betting round,    -   a maximum house collection amount based on three players and the        game ending after the third betting round,    -   a maximum house collection amount based on four players and the        game ending after the third betting round (and so on with        increasing players and an increase in betting rounds),    -   an identifier or name for the specific pot collection profile,        and    -   the rake account identification 480.

b) Time Based Collection

The time collection method or profile 604 may be applied by a humandealer, however, the profile is preferably executed by the housecollection tool 600 of the system 10. The time collection profile 604 ispreferably employed primarily to take a fixed collection amount atregular time intervals. Pot size, minimum number of players and thebetting round are preferably disregarded as collection criteria becausethese values are hand-dependent. The time interval is preferably commonamongst all players in any particular game in that the time span is ofan equivalent number of minutes for each player and the intervals beginand end at a common moment in time. For instance, for a sixty minutetime interval, the interval may begin and end at the top of the hour forevery player in the particular game.

Referring to FIGS. 36 and 37, a player may enter a poker game at thebeginning or anytime time during play and even midway into a timeinterval when the time collection profile 604 is being applied. When aplayer selects 630 a table 18 where a poker game is being played withthe time collection profile 604 of the house collection tool 600, theplayer is preferably provided with an option to select 632 a door chargeoption or select 634 a time interval collection option. This option maybe integrated into options button 72C of the player interface 54. If theplayer selects 632 the door charge option, the system 10 will provide636 an extended period of play without reference to substantiallyshorter time intervals.

If the player selects 634 the time interval collection option, theplayer is then preferably offered a sub-option of choosing 638 tode-select an autopost collections feature. If the player does not choosethis sub-option or until the player does select this sub-option, thesystem 10 defaults 640 to the autopost collections feature. If theplayer has chosen 638 to de-select, the system 10 calculates the amountof the initiating interval collection based on the time remaining in thetime interval. The system 10 then prompts 642 to pay the calculatedcollection amount. This system prompt 642 may be accomplished as avisual indicator (not shown) on the player interface 54 and/or on theCDA 26. Audio alerts may also be applied.

After the prompt 642, the system 10 initiates 644 an internal clockproviding the player with a pre-determined amount of time to pay thehouse collection. This response period is of a duration that gives theplayer a reasonable amount of time to react, yet is not so long as tounduly delay play of the game. If the player opts 646 not to pay theinterval collection during the prescribed response period, the system 10forces 648 the player to quit the game.

With the player removed 648 from the game, the system verifies 650 thatmore than one player or a predetermined minimum number of players remainin the game. If more than one player or more than the predeterminedminimum number of players remain, the game continues 652. If only oneplayer remains in the game or less than the minimum number of playersremain, the system 10 determines 654 if the remaining player(s) havepaid the interval collection. If the remaining player(s) have paid theinterval collection, the system 10 refunds 656 the remaining player(s)and the game ends 658.

After a player pays 643 for a time interval, the system 10 preferablygraphically displays 645 the collection on the CDA 26. If the playerthen decides to leave 647 the table 18 and later returns 649 during thesame pre-paid time interval, the player is not collected from again 651for the same time interval. The system 10 is ideal for tracking andtreatment of players in this way that would otherwise be difficult foran employee dealer to coordinate.

With this overall understanding of the time collection method 604, anemployee of the casino 12, for instance, having security access to thehouse collection tool 600 can construct a time collection profilesimilar to that of constructing a game profile as previously described.Parameters that are preferably entered by the host or employee mayinclude:

-   -   a duration of time preferably in minutes for the time interval,    -   a duration of time preferably in seconds for the response        period,    -   a collection amount for each time interval,    -   a minimum number of players needed to play the game,    -   a duration of time preferably in hours for the door charge        option,    -   a collection amount for the door charge option,    -   an identifier or name for the specific time collection profile,        and    -   the rake account identification 480.

Preferably, the time intervals are defined as fifteen, thirty, or sixtyminutes or any value in increments of thirty minutes for intervalsgreater than one hour. The clock used for controlling the time intervalsis preferably integrated into the server or controller 50. As previouslydescribed, partial collections may be taken from players entering agame, however, the dollar amount is preferably rounded up to the nearestfifty cents. Preferably, the system 10 only takes collections from theplayer's table stakes, and the players do not have the option to paycollections directly from their house accounts.

c) Hand Based Collection

The hand collection method or profile 606 may be applied by a humandealer, however, the profile is preferably executed by the housecollection tool 600 of the system 10. The hand collection profile 606 ispreferably employed primarily to take a fixed collection amount perplayer and prior to each hand played. Pot size, minimum number ofplayers and the betting round are preferably disregarded as collectioncriteria because these values are hand-dependent. Preferably, only onehouse collection per hand is conducted for the game profile utilizingthe hand collection profile 606.

Referring to FIGS. 38 and 39, a player first selects 660 a table 18 witha game profile utilizing the hand collection profile 606. Afterselecting 660 the table, the player sufficiently funds 662 the tablestakes as previously described and the system 10 may automatically take664 the first fixed collection from the player's table stakes. Thishouse collection is then preferably represented 666 on the CDA 26. Onceall players have anted and paid the house collection, the system 10designates 668 a dealer preferably by the virtual placement of a dealerbutton. The system 10 then deals 670 the hand.

Upon end of play 672 of the hand, a player has the options to quit 674and sit-out 676, designating themselves as “inactive” thus not having topay the house collection for the next hand. Preferably, the player(s)must opt to quit or sit-out prior to the system dealing the first cardand/or prior to the system designating the dealer. For the remainingplayers, the system verifies 678 the amount of the remaining tablestakes for each player. they each have sufficient table stakes. If aplayer is verified by the system 10 to have insufficient 680 tablestakes remaining, the under funded player is dealt out of 682 the nexthand. The player can then choose to quit 682, choose to reserve a seat684, or choose to rebuy 686. If the under funded player has choseneither to reserve a seat 684 or rebuy 686, the system 10 initiates aninternal zero balance timer 688 that begins a time period in which theplayer has to keep the seat reserved and/or to rebuy. If the player doesnot return to their seat funded and/or does not rebuy to refund theirtable stakes before the time period expires 690, the system 10 willautomatically unseat 692 the player.

If the system verifies 678 that the player(s) have sufficient 694 tablestakes, the system makes the collection for the next hand and preferablyrepresents 696 the collection graphically on the CDA 26. The system willthen designate a dealer 698 by placement of a virtual dealer button, andthen deal 700 the next hand. If the hand is aborted 702, the hostoperator or employee is provided 704 the option to manually refund thehouse collection for the aborted hand.

With this understanding of the time collection method 604, an employeeof the casino 12, for instance, having security access to the housecollection tool 600 can construct a hand collection profile in a waysimilar to that of constructing a game profile as previously described.Parameters that are preferably entered by the host or employee mayinclude:

-   -   a minimum number of players needed to play the game    -   an amount to be collected from each player per hand,    -   a total amount to be collected per hand (in the alternative of        entering an amount to be collected from each player per hand),    -   a time period in which the player has to refund their table        stakes,    -   a minimum table stakes amount (may also be represented as a        ratio making it a function of the house collection per hand        amount),    -   an identifier or name for the specific hand collection profile,        and    -   the rake account identification 480.

d) Dependency Between the House Collection Tool and the AdministratorTool:

The house collection tool 600 is preferably accessed through the hostconsole 102. More specifically, the house collection tool 600 may beaccessed in any variety of ways including from the table page(s) 126 ofthe user interface 120, through an icon in the tool bar 312 of theadministrator tool 300, and/or through any number of prompts includingthe game profile prompt 406 of the administrator tool 300.

In some instances, the house collection tool 600 may generally derivesome of the needed data from the administrator tool 300 or vice-versadepending upon which tool and in which circumstance is the slave of theother. Such sharing of information may generally include:

-   -   the player status field in the component parameters list 132 of        the table page 126 (see FIG. 11),    -   the pause game button 150 affecting the time collection profile        604,    -   the stop game button 152 affecting house collection refunds of        preferably any collection profile,    -   stop/pause parameter selection area 146 affecting the time        intervals of the time collection profile,    -   rake section 172 (see FIG. 12),    -   the fee fields 376, 378, 380, 382 of the create jackpot profile        prompt 398 (see FIG. 20),    -   the minimum players field 390 of the create jackpot profile        affecting when a game is halted and possible refunds of house        collections,    -   the rake account identification 480 of the game profile prompt        406 affecting where a house collection is deposited (see FIG.        23),    -   the minimum rebuy field 450,    -   the rejoin timeout field 456,    -   the minimum players field 458,    -   the minimum stakes field 444,    -   the create payout structure prompt 512 (see FIG. 29), and    -   the create rake structure prompt 514 (see FIGS. 31 and 34).

As another preferred embodiment, the house collection tool 600 may beintegrated completely into the administrator tool 300. Thus each gameprofile when created would include the creation of a house collectionprofile including the ability to select one of at least the threecollection profiles 602, 604, 606 or any variations thereof. Anycustomizing to any one of the collection profiles can be made during thecreation of each game profile. For simplicity, all or a substantialportion of the parameters can default to preferred values until the hostor employee makes an actual change. Moreover, because each playerregisters into the system, house collections may be adjusted forindividual players in a common game. For instance, for a pot collectionprofile 602, one player may contribute a higher percentage toward thehouse than another player.

XI. Tournament Play

The system 10 and thus the house collection tool 600 facilitatestournament play. In a tournament, a predetermined number of tables 18having a predetermined number of players are involved. A buy-in, e.g.,$100 is required. Typically, after a player loses all of their money,they are eliminated from the tournament.

Under predetermined rules, players may register for a tournament and beassigned to seats at a table. During play, under predetermined rules,tables may be broken down and the players distributed to other tables.The system 10 facilitates the tournament by providing one or more of thefollowing features:

-   -   a) registration,    -   b) tracking tournament information,    -   c) display of tournament information on central display and/or        remote display,    -   d) tournament set-up, e.g., buy-in,    -   e) rebuy-in,    -   f) tournament jackpot, cash or entry voucher for entry another        tournament (specific tournament or expiration date),    -   g) Process for breaking tables:        -   (1) message that table is breaking        -   (2) convey new seat assignment        -   (3) determination of breaking order        -   (4) display of breaking order,    -   h) display information on status of other tables and players at        other tables    -   i) System to monitor and adjust hands per hour of an individual        table during a tournament: During a poker tournament it is        important that each table play roughly the same number of hands        per hour as all other tables. This can be accomplished by        pausing a game and/or slowing a game down with out pausing,    -   j) multi-site tournaments,    -   k) system for automatically paying players tournament winnings        based on tournament pay tables and their final position in the        tournament,    -   l) automatic posting of blinds and method to turn on and off of        automatic posting of blinds/missed blinds,    -   m) method for automatically calculating allowed bet amounts in        pot-limit and no-limit betting structures,    -   n) automatic varying of rake based upon number of players, time        of day, type of game and/or other criteria preferably via the        house collection tool 600,    -   o) ability to offer rake discounts to individual players        preferably by way of the house collection tool 600,    -   (p) transferring a player from one seat to another at the same        table, or to another: Situations exist where are forced to        (“must move”) or desire to move seats. This feature provides        automatic notification and movement of player information from        one seat to another,    -   q) database and network architecture allowing single and        multi-site networking and management of a plurality of automated        poker,    -   r) tracking and reporting of player statistics: Data and method        of display over the internet and/or other methods for player to        analyze their previous play statistics. In another embodiment        date and method of display is utilized to determine player        rankings for a given game and/or over a given time period,    -   s) ability to view available tables and register for live tables        and/or tournaments via a remote connection such as the internet        or an automated voice response unit,    -   t) options adjust speed of play(speed of card shuffling,        dealing, discarding, betting, etc.),    -   u) electronically transfer money from an account to the table,    -   v) electronically transfer money to another,    -   w) use of “cash card” to bring money to the table,    -   x) ability for operator to view details of any and all tables,        and    -   y) ability for operator to view details of any and all players.

XII. Alternative Embodiments

While the forms of the invention herein disclosed constitute presentlypreferred embodiments, many others are possible. For instance, the housecollection tool 600 may apply any variety and/or combination of profiles602, 604, 606. It is not intended to mention all the possible equivalentforms or ramifications of the invention. It is understood that the termsused herein are merely descriptive rather than limiting, and thatvarious changes can be made without departing from the spirit or scopeof the invention.

1. An electronic gaming system for control of a plurality of games beingselectively played by a plurality of players, the system comprising: atleast one game table having a plurality of electronic player interactionareas for player communication and player input, wherein each one of theplurality of players is located adjacent to a respective one of theplurality of electronic player interaction areas; a game computer beingin communication with the plurality of electronic player interactionareas, and a user interface for managerial control of the at least onegame table; and a software based house collection tool being operatedthrough the user interface for the creation of house collection profilesincluding a pot collection profile, a hand collection profile and a timecollection profile.
 2. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 1further comprising a software based administrator tool operated throughthe user interface for the creation of at least one gaming profile typeassociated with at least gaming rules, and wherein the software basedhouse collection tool is inter-dependent with the administrator toolthrough the user interface.
 3. The electronic gaming system set forth inclaim 2 wherein a host with a first security clearance has access to theadministrator tool and a host with a second security clearance hasaccess to the house collection tool.
 4. The electronic gaming system setforth in claim 2 wherein the house collection tool is accessed from theadministrator tool.
 5. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 2wherein the administrator tool is slave to the house collection toolwith respect to house collection profiles.
 6. The electronic gamingsystem set forth in claim 1 wherein the pot collection profile has aminimum collection amount for comparison to a predetermined percentageof a final pot amount when a hand of poker does not progress beyond apre-flop betting round.
 7. The electronic gaming system set forth inclaim 6 wherein the pot collection profile has a maximum collectionamount for comparison to the predetermined percentage of a final potamount when a hand of poker progresses beyond the pre-flop bettinground.
 8. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 1 wherein thetime collection profile has a time interval that begins and endscommonly with the plurality of players of a poker game.
 9. Theelectronic gaming system set forth in claim 8 wherein the timecollection profile has a door charge option for providing an extendedperiod of play for an opting player without reference to the timeintervals, and wherein any one of the time intervals is substantiallyshorter than the extended period of play.
 10. The electronic gamingsystem set forth in claim 1 wherein the hand collection profileautomatically removes a predetermined house collection amount from thetable stakes of each player prior to play of each hand of a poker game.11. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 10 wherein the housecollection amount is displayed graphically on a central display area.12. The electronic gaming system set forth in claim 2 furthercomprising: a computer having the user interface for receiving input forthe creation of the house collection profiles and the creation of gamingprofiles; and wherein the game computer executes play of the gameprofiles and house collection rules.
 13. A house collection methodutilized in connection with the game of poker, the house collectionmethod comprising the steps of: recognizing a number of players at thebeginning of a poker hand; completing play of a poker hand; establishingthe final pot amount; calculating a preliminary collection amount basedon the final pot amount; comparing the preliminary collection amount toa pre-selected minimum house collection amount if betting rounds of thepoker hand do not proceed beyond a pre-flop betting round; collectingthe preliminary collection amount from players of the game if thepreliminary collection amount is less than the minimum house collectionamount; and collecting the minimum house collection amount from theplayers of the game if the minimum house collection amount is less thanthe preliminary collection amount.
 14. The house collection method setforth in claim 13 comprising the further steps of: calculating a maximumhouse collection amount base on at least in-part the recognized numberof players; comparing the preliminary collection amount to the maximumhouse collection amount if betting round proceed beyond the pre-flopbetting round; collecting the preliminary collection amount from playersof the game if the preliminary collection amount is less than themaximum house collection amount; and collecting the maximum housecollection amount from the players of the game if the maximum housecollection amount is less than the preliminary collection amount. 15.The house collection method set forth in claim 14 wherein thecalculation of the maximum house collection is also a function of anumber of betting rounds.
 16. The house collection method set forth inclaim 13 wherein the method is executed via a software based housecollection tool.
 17. The house collection method set forth in claim 14wherein the method is executed via a software based house collectiontool.
 18. A house collection method utilized in connection with the gameof poker, the house collection method comprising the steps of:initiating a first response time period; taking a house collection froma first player without any intervention from the first player; expiringof first response time period; initiating a first time interval period;commencement of poker play; expiring of first response time period; andinitiating a second response time period.
 19. The house collectionmethod set forth in claim 18 comprising the further steps of: opting notto pay interval collection by a second player during the first responsetime period; and removing the second player from the game prior toinitiating the first time interval period.
 20. The house collectionmethod set forth in claim 19 comprising the further steps of:determining that at least a pre-determined minimum number of playersremain in the game; and commencement of poker play if at least thepre-determined minimum number of players remain in the game.
 21. Thehouse collection method set forth in claim 20 comprising the furthersteps of: opting not to pay interval collection by at least one playerof the plurality of players; removing the at least one non-paying playerfrom the game; determining that the pre-determined minimum number ofplayers do not remain in the game; determining whether any of theremaining players have paid the interval collection; refunding theinterval collection to the remaining players that paid; and terminationof poker play.
 22. The house collection method set forth in claim 21wherein the house collection method is controlled by a software basedhouse collection tool.
 23. The house collection method set forth inclaim 22 wherein the house collection method is executed by a gamecomputer.
 24. The house collection method set forth in claim 23comprising the further step of selecting between an auto-post collectionprocess and a prompted collection process by a player.
 25. The housecollection method set forth in claim 24 comprising the further steps of:leaving the poker game by a player of the plurality of players during agiven time interval; return of the player of the plurality of playersprior to termination of the given time interval; and resuming play bythe player without further house collection toward the given timeinterval.
 26. The house collection method set forth in claim 21comprising the further steps of: entering the game by a new playerduring a given time interval; calculating a proportionate housecollection based on the time remaining in the given time interval; andpayment of the proportionate house collection by the new player.
 27. Thehouse collection method set forth in claim 23 comprising the furthersteps of: entering the game by a new player during a given timeinterval; calculating a proportionate house collection based on the timeremaining in the given time interval by the game computer; and paymentof the proportionate house collection by the new player.
 28. The housecollection method set forth in claim 23 comprising the further steps of:selecting between a door charge option and a time interval collectionoption by a player; and selecting between an auto-post collectionprocess and a prompted collection process by the player if the playerpre-selected the time interval collection option.
 30. A house collectionmethod utilized in connection with the game of poker, the housecollection method comprising the steps of: pre-determining a fixed housecollection; collecting the fixed house collection from each one of aplurality of players; dealing a hand of poker; verifying sufficienttable stakes from each one of the plurality of players; dealing-out aplayer having insufficient table stakes from the next hand; providingthe dealt-out player an option to quit or refund table stakes; andinitiating a zero balance timer if the dealt-out player opts to refundtable stakes.
 31. The house collection method set forth in claim 30comprising the further steps of: expiring the zero balance timer priorto the dealt-out player refunding table stakes; and un-seating thedealt-out player.
 32. The house collection method set forth in claim 30comprising the further steps of providing the dealt-out player with theadditional option of reserve seat; and initiating a zero balance timerif the dealt-out player opts to reserve seat.
 33. The house collectionmethod set forth in claim 30 wherein the house collection method iscontrolled by a software based house collection tool.
 34. The housecollection method set forth in claim 32 wherein the house collectionmethod is controlled by a software based house collection tool.
 35. Amethod of operating a house collection tool for controlling revenuecollection from hosting a card game, the method comprising the steps of:activating a computer of a gaming system; displaying the housecollection tool on a user interface of the computer; selecting one of aplurality of house collection profiles displayed on the user interface;selecting a unique house collection profile of one of the plurality ofhouse collection profiles; and assigning the unique house collectionprofile to a game profile.